I'm currently driving a Ford Explorer LTD, which generates an enormous amount of RF Noise. Since the Writers are apparently not striking, I find myself with the funds to buy a new SUV - preferrably one that is a bit more fuel economical.

Under consideration are the Ford Escape (Mazda), Honda CRV, and the Toyota RAV-4. Anyone have positive or negative experiences with any of these in regards to RF Noise? The Escape might be a possibility because the Ford Dealer is close by for servicing purposes, but I am concerned with my prior experience with Ford Products.

Don't consider buying a Chevy Tahoe... I have a 1996 model and you can not even listen to LOCAL stations on the Factory installed AM radio thanks to all the noise. The GM dealers I have talked to say that no one cares about AM radio anymore and there is nothing they can do to cure the problem. I can't believe I am the only one still listening to AM radio. As for my ham gear, I do get some minor ignition noise on two meters and 222 mHz, but it is tolerable. I can only imagine how bad HF operation might be since my "Standard AM" is not listenable. Tom-KR4BD

Well, I think you may have overlooked the really first SUV, the Dodge/Chrysler minivan. Lots of room, all wheel drive capability available and really no noise to worry about. Has all the features of the SUVs on the market and no bad habits that I know of. Look at one of them. You might be surprised. And no, I am not a salesman nor do I own any of their stock.73,FrankKL7IPV

I drive a Nissan Xterra with a filter installed on the fuel pump motor (90%) of the noise comes from the brush type fuel pump motor FYI.. This is common for all vehicles. I also bonded all of the body parts and muffler to the frame with 1 inch copper flex. This same fix will clear problems on most of the vehicles out there, however most Ham's are to (whatever) to really clean up a vehicles noise problems.I can hear the band noise floor on 40m and 20m.

Thanks to all for your comments. I am single so a van is not necessary for me and as the trustee of a mountaintop repeater, I need an SUV to get over the rocks in the road.

My Explorer has also had a filter installed before the Fuel Pump and the major parts (exhaust pipe, hood, tail gate, etc) have been grounded with strap. The noise that I get comes in on the antenna... it gets louder and softer with the connection and disconnection of the antenna. The noise is there regardless of whether the mount is grounded to the vehicle or not. I have come to the conclusion that Fords are just noisy - one backed up by several articles in "WorldRadio".

That is why I specifically asked about the Escape. While Ford sells it, it is manufactured by Mazda and might be a bit better in the RF department. Guess I will have to drag a magnet mount and rig with me to actually listen when I start test driving.

Thanks again... if anyone else has some information please add it here.

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